DOST opens Metals and Engineering Innovation Center at NORSU

DUMAGUETE CITY – The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) opened the Metals and Engineering Innovation Center (MEIC) at the Negros Oriental State University (NORSU), with the first MEIC launched at the Technological University of the Philippines-Visayas, marking the second MEIC in Negros Island Region (NIR) in February this year.

"What does science and technology mean to you? The essence of science and technology signifies innovation, opportunity, and progress. We want to ensure that these are not just aspirations but realities.  We need to make sure that universities now go beyond publication. These are not simply big toys for big boys but big toys for you to make an impact. Go beyond teaching, extend as much assistance as possible,” DOST Secretary Renato Solidum gave a thought-provoking message assuring his continued support for the MEIC.

According to Engr. Robert Dizon, Executive Director of DOST-MIRDC, the center is part of an initiative by the Department of Science and Technology’s Metals Industry Research and Development Center (DOST-MIRDC) to bring advanced metalworking technology and support to local businesses and industries in the NIR.

"The inspiration of the MEIC is the Food Innovation Centers (FICs) all over the country.  The DOST aims to set up MEICs across the country to provide much-needed assistance and innovation to local industries because MEICs are equipped with CNC machines, laser cutters, and computer-aided designing tools,” Dizon bared.

Dr. Edwin Romano Jr., NORSU Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension, expressed confidence in the center’s impact, stating that the MEIC at NORSU will be a source of pride for NIR.

The new MEIC can help local businesses through design, fabrication, and machine-building services.  It can also become a place for research, helping companies create new products, parts, and equipment.  “By working with universities and industry leaders, the MEIC will drive collaboration and growth in the region,” he added.

Engr. Rowen Gelonga, OIC Director of NIR said that the facility is primarily for the private sector to have a higher level of competitiveness in business and industry and he also reaffirmed NIR's support for the facility, noting its multiple functions and ongoing discussions for collaboration with TESDA.

Training and Hands-On Learning for Students

Dr. Leah Buendia, DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development highlighted the center's role as a "hands-on learning hub," noting that the province has a strong focus on manufacturing and sugar processing.

Buendia said that MEIC is also a hub to train students and faculty in specialized skills for metalworking and engineering. Students will have the chance to use professional-grade equipment, gaining practical experience that will help them in their future careers. Faculty members will also receive training to enhance their expertise, creating a pool of skilled professionals who can offer solutions to local businesses.

"Every time we visit the regions, we are sad that many of the equipment that we use are imported.  Our question is: How can we be self-sufficient in supplying the machinery requirement of the country?  The establishment of the MEIC will help us become self-reliant in supplying the needs of our stakeholder,” DOST Undersecretary Sancho Mabborang underscored the broader significance of the MEIC.

NORSU President Noel Marjon Yasi expressed his gratitude to the DOST for selecting NORSU to set up the 2^nd MEIC in the region promising to produce highly-skilled graduates because of the presence of the center.  With the opening of the MEIC, local businesses, students, and faculty now have new opportunities to work together and advance the metals and engineering fields in the region. (Photos: DOST7/Dayien Lizada)